Chronicling civil-service life for California state workers

March 8, 2010

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is "likely to veto" a furlough exemption bill that sailed through the Assembly and Senate this afternoon, an administration spokesman told The State Worker just a few minutes ago.

The state Senate approved the measure, SBX8 29, by a 27-7 vote. Earlier, the Assembly approved the bill by a 70-7 after add-on votes were counted at 1:20 p.m. The measure exempts from furloughs any state employees in positions paid with 5 percent or less of general fund money.

Schwarzenegger probably won't sign it.

"The governor cannot support any measure that would limit the state's ability to respond to the fiscal crisis," Schwarzenegger spokesman Aaron McLear said. "Just as every California family and business, we must do all we can to cut spending."

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About The State Worker

The Author

Jon Ortiz launched The State Worker blog and a companion column in 2008 to cover state government from the perspective of California government employees. Every day he filters the news through a single question: "What does this mean for state workers?" Join Ortiz for updates and debate on state pay, benefits, pensions, contracts and jobs. Contact him at (916) 321-1043 and at jortiz@sacbee.com.

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